By Greg Stobart at Old Trafford

The interim manager guided his side to a vital win over Manchester United to take pole position in the race for Champions League football, with Spurs their visitors on Wednesday

Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez believes Wednesday’s clash against rivals Tottenham will be a "final for both teams" as his side close in on a place in next season's Champions League.

A win against Spurs at Stamford Bridge will guarantee the Blues a top-four finish thanks to their far superior goal difference, following their dramatic victory at Manchester United on Sunday through Juan Mata's deflected 87th-minute strike.

"Wednesday will be a final for both teams," Benitez told reporters. "We are in the driving seat and hopefully we can get three points against Tottenham.